Ashby & Graff Real Estatehttps://ashbygraff.com
Your California real estate connection.Sat, 06 Jun 2020 18:34:17 +0000en-US
hourly
1 https://wordpress.org/?v=5.4.1177342266Learn About Fair Housinghttps://ashbygraff.com/2020/06/06/learn-about-fair-housing/
Sat, 06 Jun 2020 18:30:48 +0000https://ashbygraff.com/?p=19459The history of fair housing in America has mostly been anything but fair to anyone not in the majority. To better understand the role that the real estate industry has played in the establishment and enforcement of racist systems, we are promoting a collection of videos that highlight inequities and injustices in our housing policy. […]

]]>The history of fair housing in America has mostly been anything but fair to anyone not in the majority. To better understand the role that the real estate industry has played in the establishment and enforcement of racist systems, we are promoting a collection of videos that highlight inequities and injustices in our housing policy.

Let’s examine the little discussed history of how our federal, state and local governments segregated every major metropolitan area in America through racist housing policies and laws.

The Disturbing History of the Suburbs

Segregated By Design

Why Cities Are Still So Segregated

America Divided: A House Divided

]]>19459Black Lives Matterhttps://ashbygraff.com/2020/06/01/black-lives-matter/
Mon, 01 Jun 2020 22:38:32 +0000https://ashbygraff.com/?p=19452Ashby & Graff®, along with the rest of the world, are grieving the loss of life and the consistent devaluation of Black lives in America. The videotaped murder of George Floyd at the hands of those sworn to protect us is the reality of what Black Americans have been up against for generations: systems of […]

]]>Ashby & Graff®, along with the rest of the world, are grieving the loss of life and the consistent devaluation of Black lives in America. The videotaped murder of George Floyd at the hands of those sworn to protect us is the reality of what Black Americans have been up against for generations: systems of racism that are literally taking the lives of Black men, women, and children every day.

Our real estate industry that provides for the creation and preservation of wealth through homeownership has regrettably played a role in the systemic repression of minorities, and for too long, the benefits of homeownership have been intentionally denied to Black Americans.

The origins of this complex issue began over 400-years ago with the arrival of the first enslaved people from Africa and their treatment for the next 200-years as the private property of slave owners. Then by Jim Crow laws, which sought to remove any political and economic clout of newly freed Black Americans and subsequently led to the institution of racist housing policies like redlining, steering, and blockbusting. And now in our present times where the large gap between white and Black homeownership has remained almost unchanged since the enactment of the Fair Housing Act over 50-years ago.

The inequity in housing is but a sliver of the injustices facing minorities in our country, but it is emblematic of the long-lasting impact of programs that were specifically designed to keep a group of people enslaved.

Ashby & Graff is committed to being part of the solution and not part of the problem by silencing our social media accounts this week so that we may lift up and amplify the voices of organizations working on racial equality. We all have the power to speak up in the face of wrong and injustice, and we are challenging businesses across America to stand in solidarity with minorities in our country who are fighting for survival. Our company is and always will be committed to action, and we will be making a donation to the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund to assist in their fight for racial justice.

]]>19452Top Tips for Creating a Beautiful Garden in Your Yard This Yearhttps://ashbygraff.com/2020/05/22/top-tips-for-creating-a-beautiful-garden-in-your-yard-this-year/
Fri, 22 May 2020 14:54:43 +0000https://ashbygraff.com/?p=19359When you have space on your property that allows for a garden, there is no reason not to take advantage of it. The Southern California region is friendly to gardens. While it is true that the summers bring serious heat, the area benefits from not experiencing frigid winters that bring in snow and overnight ice. […]

]]>When you have space on your property that allows for a garden, there is no reason not to take advantage of it. The Southern California region is friendly to gardens. While it is true that the summers bring serious heat, the area benefits from not experiencing frigid winters that bring in snow and overnight ice. Here are some tips for creating a beautiful garden in your yard this year.

Plant the Right Flowers

To create a beautiful garden, you must plant the right flowers. Some flowers that are recommended for the Southern California region and climate are poppies, morning glories, daisies and penstemon plants.

Once you have picked out your flowers and planted them, consider planting full sun plants in a less shaded area of your garden. Since this region is dry and hot throughout the year, low-maintenance perennials work best. Plus, there is no shortage of sun to keep your plants growing and healthy.

Remove Weeds

Removing weeds is a must. If weeds are left alone, they will grow and take over your garden. Experts in the gardening field recommend that you find and pull them before their roots get too long. When the dirt is dry, water it first. Then, pull the weeds. They should loosen up more easily that way. Industry experts admit that it takes time to get all the weeds out of a garden, but the effort is worth it. There are also steps you can take to prevent, or at least minimize, the growth of weeds, like sprays. It is important to remove weeds because they rob the soil and your garden of necessary nutrients and water.

Use Proper Soil and Fertilizer

The proper soil and fertilizer are important for a beautiful garden because the flowers, shrubs and other greenery have to eat. The soil and fertilizer feed them. So, the better these two components are, the more your garden will thrive. As your garden grows, the soil loses its nutrients. That is where fertilizer comes into the picture. On a consistent basis, you have to feed the plants. The frequency is determined by the quality of the products you decide to use.

In Southern California, most soils are made up of dense clay. If you want to add a vegetable plant to your garden in addition to flowers, you should use rich, crumbly loam soil that has beneficial earthworms and microbes.

Give It Attention

Once your garden starts to blossom and grow, it requires maintenance. Some plants grow taller than others. There are also those that spread out in the spaces of others. All those things must be managed so that the garden can keep its beauty. Some things that require attention are keeping bugs out, cleaning up in the fall and ensuring that no plant diseases have entered the garden.

If you want to minimize maintenance, there are steps you can take before you get started. Keeping the plant variety low, removing weeds in a timely manner and applying mulch are some options for cutting down on your workload.

Know Your Zone

The USDA Hardiness Zone is a map that helps those who garden and grow determine the best plants to use in their area. The map is based on winter temperatures. The purpose of the map is to provide a starting point. A garden is affected by factors other than temperature, but for the beginner, it is one point of reference. Maybe you are not a beginner but are trying to figure out if a new plant or crop will work in your area. For example, southern California has zones 5a through 11a. By looking up those zones, you can determine which plants are more likely to survive in your area.

Prune

To properly prune a plant, there are a few things you need to do. You need to make sure you use the proper tools for the job. Those tools have to be cared for, too. You have to cut at the correct distance and the correct angle. The result will be a stronger plant that is not weighed down by weak branches. Plus, air circulation is improved. Pruning also helps to encourage plants to grow in a thicker formation that is more attractive than the tall, spindly growth pattern that can occur when certain plants aren’t pruned.

Purchase the Right Equipment

The right gardening equipment helps you build a beautiful garden. Experts encourage gardeners to purchase hoes, spades and rakes as well as pruners and a solid wheelbarrow. All the equipment should be stored safely and together. Once you know how much you are willing to spend, go ahead and focus a large portion of your budget on tools. Good tools make gardening easier. The better quality the tools, the longer they are going to last, so this makes them an investment as opposed to an expense. Tools should be properly stored together so that nothing gets bent or dulled by accident. Plus, some of the tools have sharp edges. They should be stored in a manner that will not pose a risk to anyone.

Consult With a Professional

To create a beautiful garden, you can also consult with a professional. You might have an idea of the creation you want to execute, but you may not have the know-how that allows you to accomplish it. Even for a small garden, your goal should be to maximize the space, plants and budget. There are flowers that return seasonally. There are also those that can live most of the year. A professional takes a look at the area, the soil and the irrigation. Based on existing parameters and your preferences, they can make suggestions that should lead to your beautiful garden.

There are several benefits of tending to a beautiful garden. If you have the space for one, take advantage of it. You’ll be glad you did!

California is a great place to buy a home. We can help you find the perfect one! Contact us to get started.

Downsizing is often the best option for seniors when it comes to ensuring safety and comfort during their post-retirement years. However, it’s also a pretty big undertaking, especially if you attempt it alone. Not only is there a move involved, but it’s also a move that requires a lot of careful planning and physical work; you have to declutter and make decisions about which belongings to hold onto before you can even start packing. There are so many details to consider that it’s easy to make a mistake, but even the smallest ones can cause big problems.

One of the keys to avoiding mistakes is starting with a solid game plan. Working out a budget beforehand is essential, but you’ll also need to make sure you don’t put off making any important decisions. It’s also crucial to stay realistic about the changes you’ll see in your finances after the move; many people assume they’ll start saving money right away, but there are many costs associated with moving that can delay those savings. Below are a few things you’ll want to think about when it comes to avoiding mistakes during your downsize.

Research All Your Options

Downsizing is a great way to ensure that you can continue living in your home during your post-retirement years, but sometimes health issues make independent living a real challenge. Consider all the options available to you, including assisted living facilities. There are several types that offer varying levels of care, so it’s important to tour facilities to find the right one for your needs. While cost is certainly a significant factor, there are other aspects to keep in mind when researching communities. Features like proximity to medical centers, social outings, medical treatment, and even meals play a big role in how people choose a community.

Also, remember that if you’re purchasing a smaller home or condo, there are many financing options available for seniors, so be sure to compare home loans to determine the best fit for your financial situation.

Don’t Procrastinate

Once you know a downsize is in order, it’s important not to put it off. The longer you wait to start looking for a home, the harder it will be when the time comes. Moving is a big job that takes a lot of planning, and if you wait too long, you may find that health issues or major life changes are occurring at the same time, which is a surefire recipe for stress. Instead, get the ball rolling while it’s not overwhelming, and then get organized for an even smoother transition.

Take the Downsize Seriously

Many people don’t realize how many belongings they have until they start going through them to prepare for a move, and this probably includes you. It’s difficult to see things when you live with them every day, so you’ll underestimate how stuffed your closets are or just how many baking dishes you own. Set aside plenty of time to go properly through cabinets, drawers, and closets so you can pare down your belongings. This is a crucial component in a downsize, and it can also help you feel lighter. In fact, decluttering can have major effects on your mental health, including stress and anxiety levels and even your ability to rest.

Create a Realistic Budget

Creating a realistic budget for the move is just as important as setting one for daily living. Many people fail to realize how much they’ll need to spend to get their current house in shape for a sale, or how much it will cost to hire movers. When setting their budget, homeowners should also consider the likely value of their home. Planning out each detail of your downsize will prevent issues and help the process go as smoothly as possible.

Downsizing is in itself a major life change, so it’s important to take that into consideration. It requires some creative thinking and a bit of planning, but it can be extremely helpful if you’re looking to save money or need to take your health into consideration.

]]>19346How to Make Your New Garage Absolutely Rockhttps://ashbygraff.com/2020/05/14/how-to-make-your-new-garage-absolutely-rock/
Thu, 14 May 2020 21:26:26 +0000https://ashbygraff.com/?p=19327Tired of having a mediocre garage space? Want to turn a messy space into one you can feel proud of? You can easily transform an average—or even below-average—garage into the one of your dreams. Make Your Space Too often, garages just end up as storerooms and quickly become full of clutter. Organizing your garage should […]

]]>Tired of having a mediocre garage space? Want to turn a messy space into one you can feel proud of? You can easily transform an average—or even below-average—garage into the one of your dreams.

Make Your Space

Too often, garages just end up as storerooms and quickly become full of clutter. Organizing your garage should be the first step in the makeover process.

It could be a good idea to invest in cabinets, shelves, bins, pegboards, racks, or other spaces where you can neatly store your property; this way, your rakes, tools, and bicycles don’t all end up in a heap in the corner. When you run out of wall or floor space, consider adding ceiling storage overhead to keep things out of the way. Finally, group your belongings by category for easy clean-up and access.

Add Some Tech

Another way you can really step up your garage game is by adding tech, and some garage tech even improves security. Who wouldn’t consider a high-tech garage the height of cool? An extra-quiet garage door opener, emergency lighting in case of a power outage, an electronic laser parking guide, energy-efficient garage doors, quick-drying floor tiles, and more are just a few of the options available for improving your garage. There are also lots of fancy accessories, like wet and dry vacuums, which could improve your garage experience.

In the case of some garage door openers, this tech even improves security of your home and garage. For example, some openers can monitor whether the door is open or not, automatically close the door, control the garage lighting, and connect to your smartphone.

On a more superficial note, if you work frequently in your garage, a stereo system could be a useful addition. That way, you can rock out to the radio or a favorite playlist while fixing a car, cleaning, working on a project, etc.

Change Up the Interior Design

Another way to dramatically revamp your garage is by re-doing the walls and flooring. Re-paint, and/or add a new coating to the floor. A popular garage makeover trend right now is the addition of slatwall panels to dress up what were originally plain, painted walls. If you want to get really creative, you can give your garage a theme, such as “retro.”

A new coat of paint or other new decoration can give your garage an exciting, clean, new atmosphere. The possibilities before you are endless, and you can personalize it to your own interests and tastes.

Creating a garage that rocks need not be terribly expensive or complicated. Begin by organizing and making some extra space, then add some tech and a splash of new paint. Before you know it, you won’t be able to recognize your own garage—because it will have become the garage of your dreams.

Ashby & Graff includes some of the best real estate professionals in the state and can help you find the property that’s best for you. Contact us for a free consultation!

]]>19327What California Homeowners Should Know Before Putting in a Poolhttps://ashbygraff.com/2020/05/13/what-southern-california-homeowners-should-know-before-putting-in-a-pool/
Wed, 13 May 2020 15:26:46 +0000https://ashbygraff.com/?p=19270Having a pool sounds like a great idea, especially as we approach summertime with its scorching heat. But before you jump in headfirst and start building a pool in your backyard, there are some essential things you should know. Costs and Maintenance The upfront costs of putting in a pool can be surprising. Before you […]

]]>Having a pool sounds like a great idea, especially as we approach summertime with its scorching heat. But before you jump in headfirst and start building a pool in your backyard, there are some essential things you should know.

Costs and Maintenance

The upfront costs of putting in a pool can be surprising. Before you buy a pool, it’s important to realize that you’ll not only be paying for the pool’s installation and construction, but its maintenance as well. Pool owners need to know about different factors that can affect pool safety and cleanliness in order to keep them maintained.

The water in your pool must be constantly circulated, filtered, tested, and treated with the right chemicals. The walls and floor of your pool must be regularly brushed and cleaned each week. With the upfront cost of a pool, as well as the cost of its maintenance, a pool can be very expensive. If you recognize all this, you’ll be able to avoid sticker shock and make an informed decision.

Safety and Liability Issues

As a homeowner, it’s important to understand the safety issues and liabilities associated with the upkeep of a pool. Backyard swimming pools, while being fun, also come with significant danger and liability issues. You could be held responsible for injuries and/or deaths which could happen inside or around the pool, even if it was used without your permission. In light of this, it’s important to put some security measures in place which can help keep everyone safe while using the pool. Keeping the pool in good condition and treated with the right chemicals can also help increase safety.

Zoning Laws

When building a pool, it’s important to educate yourself on the local statues and regulations about building pools in your area. Many cities have strict policies regarding the maintenance and liability of swimming pools, and do not often make exceptions. If you educate yourself, you’ll be more informed and able to make the best decision about the construction of your pool.

There are many more factors which will play into the building of a pool; costs, maintenance, safety, liability, and zoning laws are only a few of these. Other factors to consider include: what type of pool you want, longevity, landscaping, budgets, and contractors. Make sure to set aside some time to consider all these factors so that your pool building experience will be successful.

]]>19270Unique Flooring Materials That Are Also Eco-Friendlyhttps://ashbygraff.com/2020/05/12/unique-flooring-materials-that-are-also-eco-friendly/
Tue, 12 May 2020 18:18:40 +0000https://ashbygraff.com/?p=19267There is an urgent need to protect the environment for the present and future generations. By choosing to use eco-friendly flooring materials, you contribute to the fight against climate change. Technology advancements and creativity mean you can use sustainable materials without compromising style. Below are some of the eco-friendly flooring options suitable for different designs. […]

]]>There is an urgent need to protect the environment for the present and future generations. By choosing to use eco-friendly flooring materials, you contribute to the fight against climate change. Technology advancements and creativity mean you can use sustainable materials without compromising style. Below are some of the eco-friendly flooring options suitable for different designs.

Linoleum

Many people tend to confuse linoleum flooring with vinyl flooring even though they are quite different. Vinyl is made of synthetic materials, but linoleum is made with a concoction of tree resin, linseed oil, pigments, cork dust, ground limestone, and wood flour. For many years, the introduction of vinyl lowered the demand for linoleum; however, in recent years, it has re-emerged in vibrant colors with a new sealer that prevents staining. It is durable, resistant to tear and water and has a cushioning effect. Today, the material enjoys popularity as an eco-friendly and durable flooring product because of the renewable and natural raw materials. It is an appealing choice for designers and architects looking for sustainable materials that come in various styles.

Bamboo

Bamboo adds value to real estate because it is not only attractive, but it’s also made from natural materials. It is similar to hardwood; however, unlike most trees, the grass matures quickly. A tree will take a minimum of 20 years, but bamboo requires just three to five years. Also, it is more sustainable because of repeated harvesting. Bamboo provides greater resistance to damage than other types of flooring because it is durable, like many hardwoods, and a bit more resistant to water. It is lightweight and available in different hues so that it can fit in various decor styles. It also comes in many colors and grains, making it more customizable than traditional flooring materials.

Cork

Although it is mainly used for walls or for sealing wine, cork is also an excellent option for flooring. Its production comes from harvesting it from the cork oak, which is a tree that grows mainly in the Mediterranean. The best part is that harvesting does not require cutting down the tree, and it also typically re-grows in three years, making it eco-friendly. It is naturally insect-repellent, minimizes allergens in your house due to its antimicrobial features, is easy to maintain, and also retardant to fire. You can also paint it in different colors to suit your decor. It can serve you for 10 to 30 years based on its quality.

If you’re thinking of replacing your floors, there are lots of materials like these that not only look great but also are friendly to the environment. Since you can reuse and recycle eco-friendly flooring materials, it also saves you money on operations and maintenance. So the next time you replace your floors, give one of these materials a shot.

If you’re looking for a new place to renovate and sell, take a look at our listings!

]]>19267How to Get Your Home Ready for California Stormshttps://ashbygraff.com/2020/05/08/how-to-get-your-home-ready-for-california-storms/
Fri, 08 May 2020 20:18:02 +0000https://ashbygraff.com/?p=19229Storm season is upon us, and as a southern California homeowner, it’s time to start preparing your home before it’s too late. Not being prepared can potentially mean that you may be spending several days cleaning up after a storm comes through. Although damage is still possible, you can still take precautionary measures to protect […]

]]>Storm season is upon us, and as a southern California homeowner, it’s time to start preparing your home before it’s too late. Not being prepared can potentially mean that you may be spending several days cleaning up after a storm comes through. Although damage is still possible, you can still take precautionary measures to protect your home in order to minimize the amount of damage a storm can cause.

What to Expect

The main threat to Southern California is drenching rains. Not only should you expect an increase in rainfall, but brace yourself for heavy winds and large wave action. With so much rain, there is a high chance of flooding. This can also cause debris flows, landslides, coastal erosion, and coastal structure damage, particularly in canyons and burn areas. Being prepared can decrease the damaging effects caused by the storms. It’s a good idea to start collecting sandbags or similar alternatives to put around your house.

Common Storm Damage

In order to prepare your home for storm damage, start on the outside of your home by making sure that the roof is in great shape. A lot of times, shingles suffer the most from wind and rain. Be sure that the flashings are securely in place and that there are no places for water to get under roofing materials. Look above the roof to see if there are tree limbs or other items that can crash into your roof during a windstorm. Then, check the drainage around your home’s foundation. You want to make sure that water can escape quickly. You should also verify that your gutters and drainpipes are clean and firmly attached so that they can carry water away from your home’s foundation effectively.

Your Home’s Design

If you are thinking of remodeling your home to add to its square footage, then consider giving wind somewhere to escape. The more rounded your home is, the less likely you are to receive wind damage. Sometimes, adding a circular nook to the front of your home is enough to divert the wind away from it. Roofs that have a large overhang are more likely to get lifted off homes than those with smaller ones. Steeper valleys encourage the wind to go up and away from your home. Buildings with roofs that meet at a peak at the top are often the ones that have the least amount of damage.

While it may be impossible to stop all storm and water damage, taking necessary precautions and preparations can help minimize the damage. You’ll have less damage to contend with after the storm passes and you will also feel more confident about staying in your home during a storm.

]]>19229How to Complete Your Family’s New Home After Moving Inhttps://ashbygraff.com/2020/05/08/how-to-complete-your-familys-new-home-after-moving-in/
Fri, 08 May 2020 15:03:53 +0000https://ashbygraff.com/?p=19215After stepping into your new home, you may be feeling both excited and anxious. This is completely normal as moving often brings a mixture of emotions, both positive and negative. There are several ways that you and your family can complete your new home to help you feel comfortable and ready to start this new […]

]]>After stepping into your new home, you may be feeling both excited and anxious. This is completely normal as moving often brings a mixture of emotions, both positive and negative. There are several ways that you and your family can complete your new home to help you feel comfortable and ready to start this new adventure.

Help Your Kids Unpack First

No matter how exciting it is to get a new home and start out fresh, moving can be stressful on a family, especially for the kids. Kids often lack experience in dealing with newness, which can be overwhelming. To help them feel comfortable in their new home, help your kids unpack their belongings so that they feel relaxed and safe before you attend to the rest of the day’s unpacking.

Give it a New Paint Job

Painting the walls is one of the best ways to personalize your new home. To determine what the best colors or style you want to go for, it may be a good idea to evaluate your furniture to come up with some inspiration for room designs. After determining the look and style you want to go for, buy a couple of test colors in a variety of shades. If you want a serene and mature effect, stick to more neutral tones. If you want something more exciting, choose vibrant shades for a pop of boldness. There are endless possibilities when it comes to painting your home.

Meet Your Neighbors

Moving has many benefits, however, it can be tough to leave your beloved friends and neighbors behind. That is why you should make it a priority to meet your new neighbors as soon as possible. Doing so will help you make friends and better help you adapt and feel like you belong in your new neighborhood. It’s also a great way for your children to get to know the other kids, especially before school starts.

Get a Dog

Your kids have probably asked for a dog before. With all the newness that comes with a move, is now the right time to adopt a puppy? Getting a puppy is actually a great way to complete the feeling of your new home and soothe any homesickness you or your family may be feeling. With a new move comes new beginnings, so why not get a fluffy, fun-loving addition to your family at the start of this new page? However, you need to prepare your family for a new puppy before bringing one home.

Get Back on Your Routine

It’s very true that moving can be stressful—even anxiety inducing. Getting you and your family back on your normal schedule will help mitigate this stress. While you may feel tempted to stay up late unpacking, try to go to bed at your normal time—especially if you are experiencing any jet lag. Make sure you eat around the same time you’re used to and try to keep everyone busy with either unpacking, playing outside, or meeting the new neighbors. This will make the new place feel more like home.

Plant a Tree

Fixing up the landscape is one way that you can make your new house feel like home. You can start with the garden or do something as simple as planting a tree. As your family adjusts to the new area, your little tree continues to grow and thrive along with you, symbolizing your family’s new growth. Before picking out a tree, research the best trees for the climate zone you live in. Measure how much space you have in your yard to plant the tree. Take note of the properties of your yard’s soil.Several years down the road, it will be fun to look at the tree to see how much it has grown since you planted it. It will also spice up your yard with its beauty.

Deep Clean

Even if the house was well kept by its previous owners, it is normal that during the selling and moving process, the house has gotten a bit grimy or the yard has become less tamed. Your home will feel much more like home after it looks and smells nice and fresh. Set up a day when the whole family can clean it up a bit. Everyone can participate, whether it’s scrubbing the walls, cleaning the floors, or mowing the lawn. By all working together, you can create a clean place to call your home.

Attend a Community Event

Unless you’ve moved within your same community, you may be feeling a little unsure in this new neighborhood, city, or even state. It can feel lonely to be a foreigner. That is why, as soon as possible, you should get your family out of the house to attend a community event. Stop by the public library, tour downtown, attend a concert, or explore a nearby museum. That way your home won’t just become your house itself, but the whole community as well. Plus, it might be nice to get a change of scenery from the unpacking process.

Commemorate the Move

After moving, there are most likely several different emotions going on within your family. Ranging from sadness, excitement, eagerness, curiosity, homesickness, stress, and/or peace. Whatever everyone’s feelings, now is a good time to find a fun way to commemorate your new home. Order some of your family’s favorite food and throw a housewarming party for just you and your family. Or you may even want to make it a bigger celebration by inviting new neighbors, family, or old friends nearby.

Moving is a fun adventure and a great way to start a new chapter in life. However, it is normal for your family to also experience feelings of anxiety or homesickness. Putting forth the effort to make the adjustment will help your family feel at home in your new house and community. Before you know it, you and your family will fit right in and never want to leave.

Need help with the moving process? Contact us today and we can help you sell your current home as well as find the home of your dreams!

Looking to list your home soon? If so, you may be thinking about how COVID-19 will affect your home sale. That’s smart, especially since this crisis has taken in-person showings and open houses out of the equation. However, even with the current outbreak, there are some steps you can take to safely and effectively prepare your home for the market.

Safely Complete Any Needed Repairs or Maintenance

Most homes need some sort of work before they can be listed, and if your home is in need of repairs, know that there are still some safe options for completing them. For example, there are many remodeling projects that you can knock out with compromising your family’s safety during the COVID-19 outbreak and many of these projects can also help increase your home’s value. You can order supplies online to update your home office, spruce up your yards, or even makeover your kitchen cabinets, all of which can get your home noticed by more potential buyers. If you prefer not to complete these projects on your own or if you have other home repair projects that should be handled by professionals, you should also know that hiring contractors is still okay in most areas. If you need to hire a contractor to help out with emergency home repairs or outside projects, just be sure to take the proper precautions to ensure that you and your family stay safe. Ask contractors to wear protective gear and also keep your distance while he/she is inside your home working on repair or remodeling projects.

Look at Other Local Listings for Staging and Selling Ideas

Whether you list your home now or in the future, searching online for listings in the Los Angeles area is always a smart move, as it can give you an idea of what buyers want and the average sale price of homes in your area (in LA, the average is around $735,000).

In terms of staging your home, you can look at listing photos for other available and recently sold properties to see how other sellers have helped their homes stand out to potential buyers. By looking up local listings you can also get a better idea of how competitive your real estate market is right now and how the COVID-19 crisis may be affecting local home prices. COVID-19 impacts are already being felt across the country when it comes to buying and selling homes, so know that sales may continue to slow over the coming weeks and months. You can use the real estate tools mentioned above to see how many homes have sold since the pandemic started back in March, which will give you a better idea of how long it may take to sell your home and what you can expect to get for it. As helpful as these tools are for preparing and pricing your home, it’s also wise to seek advice from a reliable real estate agent before making any major decisions about staging or attempting to sell your current property.

Research Virtual Tools That Will Make Selling a Home Safer

Real estate agents across the country are being given guidelines and tips for working with current restrictions and keeping their clients safe, so your realtor should have access to this same information. Still, it never hurts to familiarize yourself with these tools especially since you may need to host virtual showings or tours with potential buyers, as it may not be safe for your agent to be in your home with you. In fact, many real estate websites are providing sellers and agents with these sorts of virtual tools to make selling a home safer and less stressful. Of course, you will want to make sure your home is clean and clutter-free even for virtual tours, so spend some time deep cleaning and know how to tidy up quickly for showings. You can also use virtual staging tools to help prep your home for virtual tours and showings.

Extra caution is needed when selling a home during a global pandemic, but there are online resources and tools that can make your life easier. From guidelines for hiring contractors to virtual home tours for attracting buyers, make sure you have the right real estate tools and tips to help you sell your home during the COVID-19 crisis.